Shot types

There are a range of shot types that are used within the media in order to make it effective and lifelike. Movement needs to appear realistic and flow well therefore the shot type that can be used is match on action, which mimics the movements of a character in order to give the correct perspective and effectively create a scene that the audience can understand and engage with. It allows the scene to flow and appear realistic.

Conversations need to appear realistic and for this to occur the correct perspective needs to be presented, this is created through the use of the 180 degree rule.

The third and final shot type is shot-reverse-shot which consists of showing both characters within a conversation for example. Within a conversation it will show the dialogue of each character separately in order for the audience to witness both sides of the conversation that is occurring. It can also be used to show the action that is occurring from the characters perspective in order for the audience to audience to understand what is going on, for example it could show the threat that the character is faced with. Then, it will switch back to the characters face, which allows the audience to gain an understanding of how the character is feeling. This is due to certain facial expressions and chosen body language which will further allow them to empathise with that character.  Shot-reverse-shot also links to the 180 degree rule as it has to stay on the same side of this imaginary line in order for the conversation to flow and look realistic. It allows the audience to not get confused and allow them to follow the conversation and the characters that are engaging within it.

I looked at existing horror films in order to  identify when and where these particular shot types were used. I learnt that all of these shot types can effectively be used if they are used correctly. I used my research to look into our own opening sequence. I believe that all three can be effective within our own opening sequence as they will all allow us to build tension within the scene and effectively engage the audience on a personal level.